S’pore model to redevelop Bukit Assek
SIBU: The state government is planning to implement an urban renewal programme modelled along a similar programme in Singapore to re-develop Bukit Assek area, according to Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the area to be covered by the programme is about 300 acres.
He told reporters this when met at the earth-breaking for the construction of a new school block for SJK(C) Kiew Nang here yesterday.
“I think the whole area has to be revamped. We will use the model in Singapore because Singapore has a low lying area and I think it is the way for us to re-develop the Bukit Assek area.
“The development will be modern; a modern city and it will cost a lot of money and we will find a way to do it,” he said.
The Chief Minister also said that there must be consensus among the people in the area, adding the state government and the local leaders would come up with a master plan on how best to develop the area.
Earlier, when officiating at the earth-breaking ceremony, Abang Johari announced a fund of RM1 million for SJK(C) Kiew Nang for its new building project which would be done on a four-acre plot.
The project costing about RM10 million will be done in two phases.
The Chief Minister disclosed that earlier this year, the school board of management chairman Tiong Hock Kieng sent him a letter to request for a fund of RM1 million for the school development project.
“Today, I come here and I give you RM1 million,” he said, adding the new 4-storey building will provide the pupils with a place conducive for learning.
“If BN-SUPP candidate for Lanang Kelvin Kong wins the election, it will make it so much easier for him to get funds for the school, being an MP.
“If he wins he can get minor rural project (MRP) funds for the school, and the state government will also help in its development,” he added.
He remarked that he himself needed a stronger mandate from the people to make Sarawak a powerful state in Malaysia.
“That is why we must win at least 28 seats out of 31 seats in this election, so that our voice will be very strong in the Parliament,” he said.
Present at the event were Minister of International Trade and E-Commerce Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh, Assistant Minister of Education and Technological Research Dr Annuar Rapaee, Dudong assemblyman Datuk Tiong Thai King and Sibu Resident Charles Siaw.